The US Central Command has confirmed the destruction of six Iranian fast boats in theStrait of Hormuz, following a coordinatedhelicopter strikeinvolving Apache and Sea Hawk platforms. The engagement, carried out on Monday, marks a calibrated escalation in Washington’s ongoing effort to secure one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
According to CENTCOM, the helicopters were deployed to neutralise vessels that were “threatening commercial shipping” during active operations in the region. The use of rotary-wing assets highlights a shift towards rapid-response engagements against small, fast-moving maritime targets.
The strike involved Boeing AH-64 Apache helicopters alongside Seahawk maritime platforms, both designed for precision targeting in complex environments. Iranian fast boats, often used for swarm tactics, pose a persistent challenge in narrow waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.
By employing attack helicopters, US forces are able to engage such threats with speed and accuracy, reducing reliance on larger naval platforms in close-quarter scenarios. The approach allows for flexible engagement while maintaining a defensive posture aimed at protecting commercial traffic.
The operation forms part of a wider campaign identified as Project Freedom, a US-led effort to restore uninterrupted shipping through the Strait. CENTCOM stated that more than 100 aircraft are currently deployed in support of the mission, operating from both land bases and carrier strike groups positioned in the Gulf.
Two US aircraft carriers are understood to be supporting these operations, providing air cover and rapid deployment capability. The mission also includes armed escorts for merchant vessels, with at least two US-flagged ships having already transited the Strait under military protection.
Alongside operational developments, CENTCOM moved to counter claims from Iranian state media suggesting that a US naval vessel had been struck during recent engagements. The command categorically denied these reports, stating that no US Navy ships had sustained damage.
Iranian outlets, including Fars News Agency, had earlier reported that a US warship near Jask was targeted and forced to withdraw. CENTCOM rejected these claims, asserting that its naval assets remain fully operational in the Arabian Gulf.
Yuvraj Tyagi is a Senior Copy Editor, specializing in security, national, international and defense affairs. With extensive experience covering the Ka...View More
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